What is the Integral of (Tan x)^2? Learn the Solution Here!

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the integral of (tan x)^2, with participants exploring trigonometric identities and their applications in integration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integral of (tan x)^2 and its relationship to trigonometric identities, particularly the identity tan^2 x = sec^2 x - 1. Questions about the direct trigonometric identity are raised, and attempts to clarify the integral process are made.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various interpretations of the integral and its identity, with some participants providing guidance on recognizing the relationship between tangent and secant functions. There is an acknowledgment of the integral's connection to basic derivatives, although no explicit consensus is reached.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express surprise at the lack of recognition of fundamental identities and derivatives, indicating a possible expectation of prior knowledge in the discussion.

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what is the integral of (tan x)^2

i added a file in which i showed the way i tried to solve it
 

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  • tan.GIF
    tan.GIF
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what is its identity?
 
the integral is:

(tan x)^2
 
I'm going to ask again, what is its direct trig identity
 
(tanx)^2=[(secx)^2]-1
 
Last edited:
the trig identity is tangent

but my integral is
tangent square
 
Lol

Are you familiar with what Mathgician said? Its a well known Trigonometric Identity, [itex]\tan^2 x = \sec^2 x -1[/itex]

Knowing that,

[tex]\int \tan^2 x dx = \int (\sec^2 x - 1) dx = \int \sec^2 x dx - \int 1 dx = (\int \sec^2 x dx ) - x[/tex]

For the integral of (sec x) squared, if you don't already know it, try differentiating tan x, what is that?
 
If you are doing integrals right now, you have to have come across the derivative of tanx from differential calc class. No offense, but its the most basic derivative and identity is so common, I just thought you already should have known. I've seen you help many people on this board with integrals, I assumed that you would already knew or maybe you just had a brain fart or something. Its alright I have moments like these also.:cool:
 
Last edited:
In fact, I just look through your attachment right there. You didn't even need Mathgicians or my suggestions for that identity, you got it yourself! 1/cos^2 x is sec^2 x :D You just needed to notice that was the derivative of tan x, instead of using cos^2 x = (1+cos 2x)/2
 
  • #10
yeeepppp thank you very much

i got it
it was right under my nose
 

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